Your Guide to Partying on Cinco de Mayo 2011

When it comes to Cinco de Mayo celebrations, Phoenix knows what it's doing. The holiday has particular resonance in the United States, where General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín and his army's unlikely defeat of French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862 is heralded as an important moment in the American Civil War (celebrating its 150th anniversary this year). In the Battle of Puebla, the French were prevented from setting up shop in Mexico with the intent to disrupt the Union.

Phoenix's close proximity to the border assures that the town will be a flurry with Latin-themed shindigs from April 30 to May 7. But who's looking for a history lesson? We've got the scoop on the real dirt, all the hottest pachangas and fiestas going down. Mariachi music will ring out, and the tequila and cerveza will flow freely all across the Valley. Multicultural events will unite DJs, live bands, and even Spider-Man in celebration of all things Latino.

Get ready to live la vida loca, Phoenix.

— Jason P. Woodbury

Saturday, April 30

12 News La Voz

Cinco de Mayo Festival

Second and Van Buren streets

Two day multi-culture family festival will host a variety of activities, including live entertainment from The Ohio Players, Little Joe, and others, arts and crafts, scholarships awarded, and a jalapeño-eating contest. 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday. $5 dollars for adults, 12 and under free.

Sunday, May 1

Special Events

Cinco de Mayo Salsa Festival

El Pedregal

34505 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale

Dozens of Arizona salsas will be available for tasting, and The Freddie Duran Plan will be on hand to soundtrack your noshing and tequila tasting. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Food and beverage prices vary.

Enchanted Island at Encanto Park

1202 W. Encanto Blvd.

Spider-Man will be on hand to sign autographs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (fees apply), Ballet Folkloria will perform, and candy-filled piñatas will be part of the festivities. Call 602-254-1200.

The Junkie Cinco Weekend Block Party (presented in conjunction with Spanish Fly) features Shwayze, Veragroove, The New F.O.s, and Chris Young on Saturday, April 30, and a dodgeball tourney on Sunday, when the winning team can earn $1000. 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Call 480-990-3000.

Arriba Mexican Grill

Five Valley Locations

Enjoy live entertainment, dancing, and giveaways from the Corona, Sauza, and Budweiser girls. Call 480-948-9969.

Aunt Chilada's at Squaw Peak

7330 N. Dreamy Draw Dr.

The Place to Be Sheen Event, featuring "Goddess Contests" and a Battle of the Bands, Zimis and the Chris Parker Project. 3 p.m. to 1 a.m. $10. Call 602-944-1286.